207-320 Processes in the Soil Environment

206-201 Soil and Water Resources.

The aim of this subject is to:

• develop an appreciation of the dynamic nature of the soil resource;

• acquire detailed knowledge of chemical, physical and biological processes in the soil environment, particularly those which impact directly on plant growth; and

• gain an understanding of how soils can be managed to optimise plant growth and minimize adverse effects on the environment.

The content includes:

• chemical, physical and biological processes controlling nutrient and contaminant availability and mobility in soil;

• methods for quantification soil organic matter and biological activity, soil structural processes and their effects on water movement, aeration and erosion processes;

• processes of soil salinisation, sodicity and acidification and strategies for amelioration; and

• concepts in plant nutrition.

A three-hour examination, a practical test (10%), and two assignments equivalent to 2500 words (each 20%).

• R E White, Principles and Practice of Soil Science. Blackwell Science, Oxford, 3rd ed., 1997.